Even though he was already a part of a giant band like the Eagles, Joe Walsh found time to release another solo album. The result, just like the others, surpassed Hotel California’s successor, The Long Run. Agree or disagree, “But Seriously, Folks…” it is certainly one of the best releases of his extensive career.
The balance of quality between the tracks is admirable, and there is not even an expendable moment. The album’s greatest strength lies in the melodies, while heavier flashes are left out, focusing more on Joe’s vocals, which delivers what is possibly his best performance on the microphone.
This does not mean that his guitar does not shine: just listen to the “Over and Over” solo and the subtle interventions in “Indian Summer” to see how sharp the musician was. Joe’s club side is on the rise, with “Second Hand Store” and “Tomorrow” as highlights in the album, “At the Station”, one of the most memorable songs of his career, composed alongside his friend Joe Vitale.
More rocker than most of the tracklist, “At the Station” is second only to that which is the biggest success of his solo career. Yes, because if “Rocky Mountain Way” is still the song most associated with Joe’s name, “Life’s Been Good” is his biggest commercial success, reaching the eighth place on Billboard.
Joining distinct segments and moving between reggae and hard rock, the long track is a humorous account of Joe’s awareness of his success and fame. Admitting that, between mansions, Maseratis, and hotel rooms, life had been very good for him, the musician delivers one of the most honest reflections on the trajectory of a successful artist, without frills.